Athabasca

Athabasca can be found approximately 145 km northeast of Edmonton. It features a population of nearly 3000 people. Agriculture, forestry, and oil and gas are the dominant industries of the area. It is also the home of Athabasca University.

As the “Gateway to the Great New North,” the community is nestled in the Athabasca River Valley which offers a picturesque location for a small friendly community. Another attraction in the area is the Muskeg Creek Park. Covering 17.5 square km, there are trails ideal for walking, biking, and cross-country skiing. It is home to a wide range of wildlife as well, from deer and moose to bears and snowshoe hares.

The town has tennis courts, ball parks, outdoor skating rinks, a golf course, and an indoor swimming pool. There is also the Athabasca Regional Multiplex which houses an arena and a curling rink, along with a fitness centre and meeting rooms.

Smoky Lake

Smoky Lake is located approximately 120 km northeast of Edmonton and is home to over 1,000 people. Its main industries include natural gas, forestry, and agriculture.

The town is known as the Pumpkin Capital of Alberta as it hosts the Annual Great White North Pumpkin Fair and Weigh Off. Smoky Lake is also referred to BirthdayTown Alberta as citizens and visitors are rewarded with free activities and gifts on their birthdays.

Smoky Lake has a curling rink, ice arena, two dance halls, a gymnasium, two ball diamonds, a campground, golf courses, and a drop-in centre for seniors. Nearby is Bellis Natural Area which features sand dunes, jack pine forests, sloughs, and small lakes.

Visit the Town of Athabasca or Smoky Lake for more information.